Bertha Jean Cottrell

Bertha Jean Cottrell, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, in-law, and friend was born on July 31, 1943 and left us on March 6, 2021 at the age of 77. She was the cherished daughter of Daniel and Marina Martinez and greatly loved by her brother Daniel Martinez, Jr. and her surviving sister Helen Smalley. Bertha Jean grew up in both Watts and Norwalk in Southern California.  While working at Downey Savings Bank, Bertha Jean met the love of her life, Roger Dale Cottrell. They married and later moved to Citrus Heights where they raised two daughters, Laura Cottrell and Brenda Pfau. Roger and Bertha Jean created an idyllic life for their family on property where they raised steers and grew most of their own fruits and vegetables. It is here where memorable monthly family dinners with the Cottrell family, the Rowan family, the Gould family, the Smalley family, and the Martinez family were held and enjoyed.  Bertha Jean spent most of her working life in Accounts Payable at both Oscar Mayer, in Southern California, and at American River College, here in Sacramento.  She made a great impression on those she knew who later shared that they were amazed by her kindness, helpfulness, and patience. Bertha Jean was also a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints where she lovingly taught primary school. She was a wonderful cook who made every part of her holiday meals from scratch, baked wonderful treats for her grandchildren, and provided many delicious home-cooked dishes to the Business Office potlucks. Bertha Jean truly made the house a warm and inviting home for all her family and friends. She loved all and was greatly loved in return and will be missed by each and every person lucky to have known such a sweet and gentle soul.  

Friends and family are welcome for visitation on Thursday, March 25, 2021, from 1-4 p.m. at Price Funeral Chapel (6335 Sunrise Blvd., Citrus Heights, CA.)  The memorial service will be held the following day on Friday, March 26, 2021, at 1 p.m. at the Citrus Heights location of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (8056 Oak Avenue, Citrus Heights, CA 95610). Per state mandate, masks are required at both services. Interment to follow at a future time at the Rose Hills Memorial Park in Whittier, CA.

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